NEWS BYTES The Harris Country (Texas) Contract Compliance Office has levied a record fine for failing to pay the required wages to workers on a government contract. Architectural Finishes, Inc., a Houston area company, has been fined more than $216,000 for violations that occurred when it painted the country Criminal Justice Center. The workers, almost all of whom were immigrants from Mexico, were paid the wages of low level helpers, when in fact they were working as skilled painters.
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The designation of Bosnia-Herzegovina for Temporary Protected Status has been terminated. However, because this decision was not made before the last designation expired on August 10, 2000, TPS will be extended for six months, until February 10, 2001. Bosnia-Herzegovina nationals currently in the US in TPS must reregister to be covered until next February. The registration period is from August 30, 2000 to September 29, 2000. People who have not already registered for TPS may apply for initial registration during this period, but to qualify they must have been in the US since 1992 in some other valid legal status.
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This week a new rule eliminating the requirement of the visa issuance fee for B-1 business visitors coming to the US to act as an observer at the United Nations. Visa fees were already waived for most diplomats and participants in UN activities. This new rule creates the same treatment for all those engaged in UN activities.
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A coalition of immigrant groups in the Chicago area has formed a group called the Independent Monitoring Board designed to keep tabs on the local INS office, which has the reputation as one of the worst offices in the country. The board will compile complaints and forward them to Illinois congressional members. < Back | Next > Disclaimer: This newsletter is provided as a public service and not intended to establish an attorney client relationship. Any reliance on information contained herein is taken at your own risk. | 
